Paul of Samosata

FL. 260-272. Bishop of Antioch. From Samosata on the Euphrates, he became bishop of Syrian Antioch c.260. His political role under Odenath and Zenobia of Palmyra-governor over tax collection-entitled him to a bodyguard, the position of judge, and a private council chamber. His critics charged him with encouraging adulation of himself and keeping virgines subintroductae. At local synods they failed to depose him in 264, but succeeded in 268, when they elected his successor, Domnus. Popular support retained Paul, and Antioch had two bishops until 272 when Aurelian recovered the city from the Palmyrene regime. Paulianists survived at least until the [[Council of Nicea]] (325).